A Comparative Study on the Effect of Proprioceptive based Training and Closed Kinematic Chain Exercise to Improve Upper Limb Function in Stroke Patients

Background: Patient with stroke frequently demonstrate problems with proprioception and hand function in their impaired limb and the recovery of these lost functions are the greatest challenge for the physical therapists. Hence alternate treatment regimens are needed to reduce the long term disability and functional impairment from UE hemiparesis. This study was to investigate the effect of proprioceptive based training and closed kinematic chain exercise to improve upper limb function in chronic stroke patients. Methods: 30 subjects satisfying the inclusion criteria were allocated to 3 groups of 10 members each. Group A received Proprioceptive based training along with conventional therapy, Group B received closed kinematic chain exercise along with Conventional physiotherapy and group C received Conventional Physiotherapy alone The participants were treated for 5 days in a week, for 3 weeks and each session lasted for approximately 50 minutes along with warm up and cool down phase before and after exercise respectively.. The subjects were assessed by Fuglmeyer scale for upper limb, Hand dynamometer and Goniometer. Results & Discussion: Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Significant improvement in all main outcome parameters was observed in response to the intervention. Between group analysis showed a statistical difference in favour of Closed Kinematic chain exercise, in the parameters of motor function, strength and Range of motion. Conclusion: Repetitive training using the Closed kinematic chain exercise will leads a significant improvement in upper limb function among stroke patients.